Miss America 1995 - Crowning Moment

[@The911sierra]

I watched this with my hearing -impaired husband and young daughter.... when she won, I just cried and cried and cried! She opened the door wider for the hearing-impaired and deaf to have more opportunities... I will never forget it....

[@jsharp1701]

One of the greatest moments in television history in my book. Heather is one of the best people this country has ever produced. Classy, gracious moment for Miss Virginia, too.

[@kamwrites]

The coolest part of this? The hesitation on Heather's face as they announce the winner, and the runner up points to her, "You won!" I think this is the only time all the girls were really rooting for a common goal. They were all delighted for her.

[@gregoryyorgey9142]

She is deaf

[@corystajduhar]

She is the most amazing person. Wow! The ballet performance she did was spectacular! The look of total shock on her face was priceless! What a gem!

[@tuddabudda79]

I am from Dothan, Alabama, and I remember her coming to my high school my senior year. She is such a wonderful person, and I am so proud she is from my home state.

[@californiagold3857]

The most deserving win in the history of Miss America. Someone said she is solid gold, well I can tell you she has a heart of gold. A wonderful human being.

[@renegaderunner332]

Miss Virginia should have won.

[@CEH477]

@@renegaderunner332 👎

[@renegaderunner332]

Yes, she should have.

[@CEH477]

@@renegaderunner332 k, well you’re the only one that thinks so. It’s been almost 30 years. Let it go!

[@renegaderunner332]

You are the one who responded to me!

[@californiagold3857]

One of the very best Miss America's ever.

[@ML-xh6rd]

The crowning of Heather Whitestone changed the Miss America pageant forever. I don't think some people realize how difficult it was for her to navigate the process as a hearing impaired person. So much of the process is about communication and when you can't hear there is an improved chance that you'll misinterpret something and answer awkwardly or incorrectly. She was a wonderful Miss America and is an amazing representative of the Miss America organization.

[@aliangelettie5075]

I read her book for my summer reading in 8th Grade. She was irresistible

[@MrRee-rs5dm]

One of my very favorite Miss America's ever.

[@goat2459]

My favorite Miss America as well, congrats on your successful life and being a role model for the American children.

[@marialuisabaltodano1]

i remember being about 10 when i watched this and crying i was so glad she won.

[@waynebrasler]

Heather just dominated the evening start to finish. I think her dance performance delivered the crown; even the hosts looked on in wonder. I don't think her hearing issues had anything to do with her being selected. She simply stood out in every way start to finish.

[@Rebeccachia98]

Her face when she found out :) that was too precious

[@quitachristian]

She is soo amazing! I read her book "Listening with my heart" and it inspired me to pursue my dream!

[@warriorgr]

Heather's reaction and Cullen's pointing at her when she was announced as miss America are just priceless. Probably the most memorable crowning in pageants' history.

[@DaphneHarridge]

Cullen’s pointing brings me to tears all these years no matter how many times I see it.

[@waynebrasler]

I agree, the greatest crowning moment ever. She also turned out to be a perfect Miss America in every way, an inspiration and role model for thousands of people trying to find their place in the world.

[@kristeniver1098]

The most amazing part is that Heather was genuinely the most beautiful woman there, and the most well-spoken, and talented. Her being able to do all that despite a hugely significant disability is just such a testament to this woman. She truly represents America

[@bianca772010]

took my breath away when she danced, i have not seen many dancers dance as she did that night, breath taking

[@nancy23737]

What a memorable night for her, very pleasant to watch!!!!

[@carlosloko3]

SHE IS WONDERFULL AND EXAMPLE OF LIVE.!! I LOVE Heather Whitestone YOU ARE THE BEST AND THE WINNER FOR EVER!!!

[@cubanbach]

This really is a CROWNING MOMENT! How wonderful How memorable What an inspiration to see this happen...I cannot stop watching it over and over... :)

[@pamfoster4460]

Heather showed that ANYTHING could be possible and that with determination, that no matter if you had a 'challenge' or you were healthy-YOU COULD and YOU MATTERED! Thanks to Heather and Kaye Lani- I returned to pageantry after my time in the military, as a wounded warrior and am working to help other find 'Their Heart's Justice'.

[@misstee101]

#missamerica1995! What a year! Happy 25th Anniversary to you Heather! 4:42 Yay Heather!

[@karenpcumbie]

Wonderful! I love that Heather Whitestone won!!

[@ballinagra13]

Most memorable Miss America ever.

[@georgepr]

Oh my, I remember this pageant so vividly! I remember the amazing interpretation of "Papa can you hear me" from Miss Indiana! Also rememer the great dancing talent (Heather), and, of course, the Lu Parker gown that Miss Georgia wore!

[@niquagirl]

She is one of my favorite queens of all time. I cried when her name was announced, you can tell she had no idea that her named was called until the first runner-up pointed to her to let her know.

[@latashadobson6233]

Her ballet performance was awesome

[@littlemikeism]

She was and still is nothing short of amazing! Such a beautiful lady all around.

[@emmarose4234]

Heather Whitestone!!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@davidcartledge5766]

Her face when she won and she looked to Miss Virginia and who pointed at her was precious! Miss Virginia hugged her and seemed nearly as happy as Heather was! One of the best moments in pageant history!

[@johnfulton4061]

When Miss Virginia's reign was almost over she held a press conference and stated that the reason Heather won was because she was hearing impaired

[@smith4496]

@@johnfulton4061 The picked the right winner. Virginia was wearing a bad looking gown, and a bad hairstyle.

[@johnfulton4061]

@smith4496 that's a matter of opinion I liked both her gown and her hairdo and apparently some of the judges agreed with me or she would not.have placed as high as she did but again it's a matter of opinion

[@rolandoobando6842]

she is one of the greatest...that night she was perfection!

[@shane802]

One of the best and heart warming moments in Miss America history. A very deserving winner. It is really disappointing to see the comments made against Heather because of her disability. As for comedians mocking her, well they will have to give an account before God whether they believe in Him or not. Congrats Heather

[@Covett83]

I remember watching this when i was a kid. The whole state of Alabama was so proud... and there was not a dry eye in the state that night. :)

[@emilyhayek1132]

A stunning beauty and so talented. She was a great miss america

[@blondechristian97]

For her talent routine, she danced and I heard that she practiced in the basement of sparkmen hall with the music up loud so that she could feel the vibrations and practice to it. She's an amazing woman and my rolemodel.

[@america1888]

Back when Miss Americas had CLASS and talent! Those lovely days were beautiful! Love those days then MUCH better than now!

[@breAnnasmama]

america1888 lol class ,yes .. I've just hardly seen many pageants where there's significant levels of talent. Most often theres some horrific singing and marginal acts ,, but I loved when HW won. I look at these pageants now though & am really seeing a little differently. Used to compete and idk .., the song after crowning is ridiculous lol , I've looked back over some old miss America pageants and the fashion was really bad in the older ones , idk. I miss the old days though. Now everything's all based on technology and no morals or standards in this world and there's no one to look up to. Beyond the platform , it's ridiculous to have a contest with so much emphasis on Beauty ..idk. I just have mixed feelings about a lot of it. I used to enjoy the pageants but idk. I agree with you though .

[@Laceydog]

One of the great american traditions. A classy adventure for honored young women. I totally support the program.

[@Ladybug76]

HA! I found an old VHS tape of mine the other day and it had this on there. I remember taping it cuz I heard she was deaf so I wanted to see what she was going to do in the talent portion of the show. I was amazed at how well she performed and wondered how she could be on rhythm with the music. But I later learned she could feel the vibrations from the speakers. Simply amazing. The crowd thought so too cuz they gave her a very long ovation.

[@maggiegracexo]

I think I stopped breathing when I saw her reaction . beautiful moment.

[@SlayerPrincess]

whoa times have changed. Kimberely accredited her singing voice to God. And Heather for one of her programs danced to a gospel song called 'via delorosa'. I miss the 90's! everything was so much more wholesome back then. :(

[@DaAngelGurley]

That was a priceless look on her face! She looked like "WHAT? Does this mean.....? R u serious?"

[@xanagu69]

Miss Virginia knew that she wasn't going to win. But I am so glad that she reacted the way that she did. She seemed really happy for her.

[@strawbrryluver135]

she is deaf and at that time she didnt understand what he had said, thats why you see Miss Virginia point at her. Im reading a book that her mother wrote about her and I get to meet her in a few weeks. Im so excited!!

[@californiagold3857]

One of my top 3 Miss America's ever. Big fan of Lee Meriweather and Phyllis George too.

[@XtremeVibe]

As a pageant fan, This is my favorite crowning moment ever

[@mysticgirl916]

Jennifer (Miss New Jersey) later participated in Miss USA 1997, she placed in the top 10

[@ilsaramos3949]

Really, that's nice. Heather's parents raised Heather really well. A lot of confidence and personality. Putting her in dance classes was the best they did for her. It made her think. I know because I have studied dance for many years. It takes a lot of concentration and discipline. Putting Heather in dance class also helped her grow to what she later became, a great success. There is nothing more than to have family and faith in God instilled in a child, so later on they can become successful!

[@dolcevitausa]

The Miss America got it right with two beautiful back to back winners in 94 and 95...

[@diannefisher7985]

I love Heather. Pure beautiful princess.

[@DriveAustra]

I wish they would return this pageant to Atlantic City and resurrect that gorgeous runway.

[@onnie5000]

I love the intros for each of the top 5 just before crowning. MA needs more things like that in the productions

[@1089jcw]

Just watched 2009 Miss America and was disappointed that there was no runway. PLEASE bbring back the runway!!

[@msymsed]

It is on here and it is Via Dolorosa...Heather Whitestone 1995 Miss America is the heading to put in the search box.

[@queenofopera]

I love how Kathi-Lee is such a comedian. She helps everyone lighten-up. : )

[@borzapolis]

Her mom is a substitute teacher at my school! :)

[@MarlonDGandy]

I love Miss America bc it's a fair pagent and they pick ginuine and smart real young women!!

[@TheHorsieJewel]

I luv the crowing crowning part in this video

[@emmarose4234]

4:02 HEATHER! ARE YOU WIPING AWAY CULLEN’S TEARS?!

[@christheone8773]

I just love her reaction when Regis Philbin announced Miss Virginia as 1st runner up!

[@primogennaio]

The ratings have declined, but Miss America is still the greatest of all traditions and events in America. It ought to go on forever and there is nothing like it.

[@MacavitysSweetheart]

A classier time....

[@topsatisfying5227]

I’ve met her and both of her sons

[@jsbruzina]

Cullen Johnson is gorgeous.

[@g0thchik77]

My favorite Miss America EVER!

[@MsMurphey24]

Sorry, I'm late to the party! ...I'm crying, I'm so happy for her

[@waynebrasler]

Bert Parks couldn't throughout the Pageant conceal his admiration for Heather.

[@charlesfranklinlambeth3944]

Wayne Brasler, Lol! Bert Parks was dead when Heather was crowned!

[@Freakgrl04]

I think her and Vanessa Williams are tied as my favorites!

[@TheMusikat]

Actually, she did enter the Miss Deaf circuit and wasn't even a finalist. The judges did not approve of her speaking instead of signing and couldn't understand how a deaf person could be a dancer. You would know that if you took the time to get the facts instead of making snap judgments based on personal bias.

[@barbaraiverson2035]

I remember Heather looking at Kathy for a moment totally confused and Kathy looking at her and crying. It was not until the other girl started to leave the stage and then pointing to her that she realized she was the winner.

[@cremetangerine82]

As someone who is not a fan of Miss America (it’s had a long history of xenophobia, white supremacy, pro-eugenics, “purity” gatekeeping, objectification of women, etc.), this is the most inspiring win for disabled Americans to have a deaf Miss America, who frankly would not be able to compete in the 1920s because of her “defect“. What a most deserved and inspiring win!

[@SeeSarahGo]

I'm from Alabama and she's the only contestants name I will probably ever remember.

[@willni06]

I love how Miss Georgia didn't get the "Ok girls... we're all going to wear white" memo! Lol. One of these things is not like the other.

[@jessestewart169]

She's gorgeous.

[@jsharp1701]

Cullen was very gracious. She was genuinely excited telling Heather she'd won. Anyway, how did Regis get Crone out of Krahn?

[@emmarose4234]

J Sharp, he has the funniest pronunciations!

[@hernandolozadapaez3437]

la mas famosa miss america de la historia....y hasta ahora unica reina mundial de belleza sordomudade la historia,,,,al igual uqe vanessa williams son famosas peroesta dulze mujer sordomuda nacida en el campo de alabama y en una granja y que supero todooooo los obstaculos en su vida logro quizas el titulo mas dificl d elograr el miss america donde la belleza es sevundaria y lo que importaes la inteligencia,personalidad,virtues.valores y talento artisitico y muchas cosas enuna mjer..nosoloquesea bella sino que tenga mucho,,,mis america es quizas el mas exigente titulo mundiald ebelleza....que existe al igual que el cnb de colombia son de los mas antiguosdel mundo...esta mujer sordomuda solo gesticulaba palabras en bajo tono...y su triunfo partio la historiade los reinados en dos.....ojala pronto haya una señorita colombia como ella....y s eelde prioridad a mujeres con discapacidad.....a aprtirde ella los eventosde belleza cambiaron y eso fue hace casi 30 años atras.....

[@robertmofford395]

She had the whole thing won before the show even began

[@smith4496]

I remember they were hyping Miss Alabama, Heather Whitestone BEFORE the Miss America Pageant got started. Heather Whitestone wasn't the first deaf contestant to compete at Miss America. Miss Washington 1989, Jennifer Wall was the first deaf contestant. She made the Top 10 at the 1990 Miss America Pageant.

[@user-cq3sk8tn4i]

1959. Tan hoa hau . Amiemac . 💒🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆

[@hernandolozadapaez3437]

la reina sordomuda del mundo....ser miss america comoser la señorita colombia sn los dos eventos mundialesde belleza mas dificilesde lograr ..los mas antiguosde la historia,,,,y de los ams exigentes para logarar..ni miss universo ni miss mundo ni miss internacional son tan dificiles comoestos dos eventos ...esta muejr sordomuda siempre me ha llamado la atencion porque paso ala historia como la unica reina mundial sordomudade la historia,,,,,no ha habido otra como ella..su triunfo fue aplaudido en el mundo y al igualque vanessa williams fueron famossa spero esta chica nacida en el campode alabama y en una granja d eextracto humilde yque le toco luchar contra los obstaculos de su discapacidad,,,logro quizas el mas apoteosico triunfod ela historia como fue el triunfode vanessa mendoza en colombia hace 20 años atras....ojala tengamos una señorita colombia en cartagena como ella una mujer asi...seria un ejemplo mundial....dicen que gano por surespuesta final y su talento artistico y su donde genets,,,,es llamada la reina de la resiliencia....

[@larainevanetten5311]

I agree. I liked Miss Virginia. She had pretty hair.

[@elliott1410]

I love this. I have been searching for a while for the video of her doing the talent portion of the contest. Her ballet interpretation of Via De La Rosa. Anyone have that?

[@georgecarter9544]

The video of the entire pageant has now been uploaded to KZbin.

[@diannefisher7985]

My favorite followed by Kay Lani. Heather looked like an angel all night

[@cll12021202]

i love how the boy anocer jumped when the guy to give the card to see who the winners are.

[@missmaryheather]

I agree! It's mine too :)

[@galileocan]

Well I don't know about you, but simply from a "beauty" perspective, Miss Virginia was miles and miles ahead of the rest...

[@MCO18]

3:01 Regis gets the crap scared out of him!

[@Albinamirzaeva]

miss Virdjinia😍👑❤

[@shelleythomas1104]

This is when Miss America was the real deal

[@scorzi]

I love it because I bet the whole time she was climbing up the pageant ranks everyone was telling her she couldn't do it.

[@timothyleon558]

No one told her that

[@Jaycat2013]

Miss Virginia was rude to Heather and complained Heather only won because she was deaf.

[@Farrah300]

That's just downright sad!!! Miss Virginia should be ashamed of herself!!!

[@ilsaramos5836]

I'm surprised Miss Virginia complained why Heather won. Deafness has nothing to do with it. The fact that Heather has a gift that she didn't even know she had is a gift in it self. Her mother taught her well, not to give in to her disability. This should be considered for one. This gave her the drive to pursue the pageant after loosing a few times. We were all born with 5 senses. To be without one is a challenge within itself. I myself have a disability for yrs. with my vision. There are times I've performed and couldn't see when being directed on stage. Therefore, I've had to use my other senses like my ears to carry me through. No one knew about this. It was frustrating! Til finally one day I got caught in the rain one night and had trouble seeing. Finally, I got fed up and went to Dr. Milton Best who had given me his card. Because of him, not only did I trust him, but God gave me the confidence to trust him and to trust Dr. Best. For years, my vision was then stabilized. People don't realize when something goes wrong with the brain, it interferes with one or more of our five senses. If caught in time, it can be treated. Years ago we had little knowledge on all those illnesses people died of. Today we have a lot more information and people's lives have extended much longer. We should all be grateful for that. Heather is a good example to those with disability in today's world. All the struggles she's had to encounter over the years. We are all born with different gifts. It's up to us to give our children confidence on how to use them. She was fortunate her mother helped her. Her mother believed in God and in her. I admire that. Look at the story of Ray Charles. His mother taught him not to be a charity case. Though he had a hard life. He too put his faith in God and remembered what his mother taught him till the day he died.

[@rachelgarber1423]

Jaycat2013 I didn't know that very pathetic sore loser

[@redbeardnc6684]

You can kind of tell by the body language...watch when it's down to the top 2 and Heather tries to wipe off a bit of smeared makeup off Cullen and she pulls away from her...

[@carlagirl7]

Does anyone have a video of Heahter's dance to Via Del La Rosa?

[@williamoxendine6121]

Now we have balls in the pageant

[@MissSimAsiaPacific]

HE GOT SCARED

[@denisgauto4704]

She can read his lips.

[@beccadilas]

Guys i am a dancer and she came and i met heather whitestone

[@randomness5131]

Collin Hill's tiktok sent me here!

[@SlayerPrincess]

hmm.....you make a good point. There has always been evil in the world, I guess I just seem to like to remember the good things about the 90's and try to forget the bad. But I humbly acknowledge what you said and admit that I wasn't exactly right.

[@jsharp1701]

It was here but the Miss America organization had it taken down.

[@cindymcintyre6697]

I remember watching this and thought Ms. Virginia should have won. Both women were great though.

[@Andrew-1980]

How awkward it would have been if She was 1st runner up

[@galileocan]

The sad thing for Miss Virginia was that she competed in the wrong year. Had she competed in any other year, she would have won easily. Sadly, she chose the year that the Miss America pageant decided to make a statement by choosing a hearing impaired contestant. No offense, but Miss Virginia was miles ahead, but had no physical infirmity in a year that having one, may have sealed the deal for her.

[@pageantgirl22]

how is there 1 dislike how?